THE largest arts and entertainment venue in south Devon is set to open its doors on Friday, May 31.

​ The Grand Opening of the South Devon Arts Centre (SDAC) will be hosted by broadcasting legend Bob Harris OBE.

The centre is also bringing 11 much-needed jobs to Totnes, with more positions planned in the following year.

SDAC will also host many different classes and workshops, and put on many special events specifically aimed at young people. The space will also be available for hire to anyone wishing to put on large or small events.

​The arts centre, based in Totnes will become the new home of the Studio Lounge, which has built an international reputation by playing host to some of the UK’s biggest new bands, as well as artists from across Europe, America, Australia and Africa.

 As well as putting on fantastic nights of music, the exciting not-for-profit project will offer the south Devon community leading theatre productions, a cinema club, and art exhibitions. It will also be the home of Totnes FM, which will launch on its FM frequency later this year. Work began on transforming this empty industrial space into a state of the art entertainment venue this week, and will be complete by mid-May to allow for two weeks of rigorous testing and rehearsals before the brilliant Grand Opening night.

 As well as gaining huge support from the local community, the project has gained backing from big name supporters such as Virgin founder Sir Richard Branson. Music and broadcast legends Jools Holland OBE and Bob Harris OBE have also become Patrons of the centre, alongside national theatre playwright Peter Oswald, film and television director Peter Richardson, internationally renowned poet Alice Oswald and Mae Karthauser, the brainchild behind opening night performers Mae & The Midnight Fairground.

 Local businesses and individuals have also been hugely supportive, with health food store Greenlife, solicitors Windeatts, Harrisons Garage and sound equipment providers Absolute Music among those backing the scheme. Thanks to their help, as well as a substantial private donation, the project has raised the funds required to complete the refurbishment.

 David Parsley, chairman of SDAC, said: “It’s great to be able to announce such a stunning line-up of music for the Grand Opening. It’s going to be a night to remember, and we can’t wait to open the doors for the first time.”

Tickets to the launch event are on sale now at www.southdevonarts.co.uk or via the ticket hotline 01803 862267.